Did your physician order you to go for a CT scan? Are you worried about radiation exposures? The fact that computed tomography scan, more than x-ray images, provides more comprehensive information of the body in 3D images is enough reason to worry about radiation. But do you have to be anxious about this scan? What specific concerns do you have? What questions should you ask? At NeuroSkeletal Imaging Institute, we are aware of the contention surrounding this test. But, with our years of experience, we’ve provided answers to some of these questions. Servicing Orlando, Melbourne, and Merritt Island, our outpatient radiology services got your back!
Does A CT Scan Increase Cancer Risks And How Do Doctors Decide If The Test Is Needed?
The dose or level of radiation obtained from the computed tomography scan is not significant. Nevertheless, depending on the person’s size and the type of imaging needed, radiation exposure of this scan is from 100-200 chest x-rays. Therefore, for an average individual, this scan is linked with limited potential risk. The possibility of developing future cancer from this scan is 1 in 2000 or 0.5%.
To decide if you need this test, most physicians rely on two key principles. The first principle is justification. In applying this, it means that this test wouldn’t be carried out unless it is justified. That is, the benefits that come from it outweigh any potential risks. Once that has been weighed, and the test has been ordered, the second principle is implemented. And that is optimization. This involves getting the best image with a minimal dose of radiation so that any potential risk could be averted.
Is It Dangerous To Expose Oneself to Many Scans?
If they are justified and optimized, exposing yourself to this scan isn’t dangerous. Often, information gotten from a scan is warranted for a patient’s symptoms and illness. But when a person develops no symptoms and the scan is for screening purposes, a careful examination has to be made to be sure that the scan is needed. In addition, there are varying organs in the body that are more sensitive to radiation. For instance, lungs, breasts, bone marrow, and thyroid are more susceptible. Conversely, some regions like the brain are less sensitive.
What Could Be Done To Understand Your Concerns About Radiation Exposures
Our understanding and experience have helped us see that many patients want their medical professionals to choose the best treatment for them. But, once that treatment is completed, they withdraw from follow-up scans that need to be done. So, what’s done is to understand the patient’s unique concerns and emphasize the benefits and risks. Then when patients can vividly see that benefits outweigh the risk, they often make themselves available. The truth is, CT scans come with more advantages than risks, and you shouldn’t be worried if you are asked to get one.
Contact Us
Of course, these are just the foremost concerns you could have about a CT scan. If you need further information or questions, contact us at NeuroSkeletal Imaging Institute. Servicing Orlando, Melbourne, and Merritt Island, we offer the best outpatient radiology services to patients like you.